Cleo Gin is a "modern gin" produced by Black Market Spirits. It is distilled in a 150-gallon copper pot still and bottled in Santa Barbara, California at 92 proof (46% ABV).
The gin is named after Cleo Lythgoe, a notorious swashbuckler legendary for supplying bootlegged liquor during Prohibition. The brand celebrates her "passion and prowess," aiming for a gin with a distinctive personality.
Key Features:
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Modern Gin: Suggesting a less traditional botanical profile compared to a London Dry Gin.
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Small Batch Maceration: The botanicals are macerated in small batches to extract their flavors.
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13 Botanicals: A blend of thirteen different botanicals contributes to its complex flavor.
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Rose Gold Bottle: The bottle has a distinctive rose gold coating.
Tasting Notes:
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Nose: Features a full and balanced floral juniper aroma with light chamomile and hints of berry and mint.
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Palate: Described as bright, full-bodied, and robust with predominant and complex citrus (specifically blood orange) and juniper notes, followed by mild berry and herbal notes. There's also a touch of sweetness.
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Finish: Soft and clean with a drawn-out refreshing spearmint finish.
Botanicals:
While the full list of 13 botanicals isn't always explicitly stated, key notes provided by the distiller include:
- Juniper (predominant)
- Blood Orange Citrus
- Chamomile
- Hyssop (herbal)
- Meadowsweet (herbal)
- Spearmint
Overall Impression: Cleo Gin appears to be a contemporary-style gin that balances traditional juniper with a noticeable citrus and herbal character, rounded out by a hint of sweetness and a refreshing minty finish. It's positioned as a well-balanced and flavorful gin suitable for various cocktails.
Where to Buy:Cleo Gin can be found at various retailers and online platforms such as Mash&Grape, Total Wine & More (availability may vary), Hi-Time Wine Cellars, and Mission Wine & Spirits.
If you're looking for a gin that offers a modern twist with prominent citrus and herbal notes alongside juniper, Cleo Gin might be worth trying.